The Himalayan Shire (Fagu)

Tucked 2 km off the main highway on Dehna Road near Talayi Village, The Himalayan Shire is a three-storey boutique villa homestay in Fagu - far enough from Shimla's tourist bustle to feel like a proper mountain escape, close enough for a day trip. Seven named rooms spread across the ground and first floors, with the entire second floor given over to a recreation and chilling space. The property holds a 4.9 on TripAdvisor across 34 reviews, which for a homestay that opened in 2023 is genuinely impressive.

The Pet Policy - Read This Before You Book

The Himalayan Shire's pet policy is conditional, and it's worth understanding before you call. pets under 6 kg are generally welcome, but approval is not automatic - the property reserves the right to decline untrained dogs or those that may disturb other guests or staff. If you're travelling with a larger breed, you either need to book the entire villa or visit on a quieter day with fewer guests. The property asks you to confirm your pet details before booking and will share the full policy at that point. A signed pet policy is mandatory at check-in. There is no ambiguity about the fee: ₹500 per dog per day, on top of your room tariff.

The Property - What Makes It Work for Dog Families

The villa is a proper drive-in property - mettled road, private parking for up to 10 SUVs, and no steps or slopes between your car and the entrance that would make life difficult with a dog and luggage. The big lawn with outdoor sofa seating is where most dog parents will spend their mornings, and the property can arrange bonfires and barbeque on request - an evening around a fire with your dog at a Himalayan altitude is hard to beat. A second-floor terrace balcony with a swing and seating for five to six offers Himalayan range views on all sides and is common to all guests. Electric heaters are in every room and 24/7 hot water is available - both relevant if you're visiting with a dog in winter and need to give them a wash after a muddy walk. The in-house kitchen runs à la carte from 9 AM to 9 PM; note that orders need to be placed two hours in advance as food is cooked fresh.

Getting There

Fagu sits 19 km from Shimla and 5 km beyond Kufri on the Theog–Narkanda highway. The Himalayan Shire is a further 2 km on the link road from Fagu village. All vehicle sizes including tempo travellers can reach the property. road access in January–February during heavy snowfall can be temporarily disrupted - the property recommends checking current conditions before travelling in those months. The nearest large town for veterinary services or pet supplies would be Shimla; plan accordingly if you're visiting for multiple days.